Gazette music columnist honored at Music Haven

SCHENECTADY — Longtime Daily Gazette music columnist and reviewer Michael Hochanadel was honored at Sunday evening’s Music Haven Concert Series in Central Park, cited “for all that you have done ... for adventurous music fans.”

The concert featured Amir El Saffar and Two Rivers Ensemble, along with Cliff Brucker and Full Circle.

“As you’ve read in the playbill,” said series Producing Artistic Director Mona Golub, “tonight’s honoree is a music journalist — with The Daily Gazette for 44 years — whose thoughtful work has nurtured the local music scene and engaged generations of new listeners.

“His previews and reviews, rich with references that evoke imagery, spark curiosity, and ignite the imagination of new generations of listeners, have been as legendary as some of the performers who have graced our stage and other stages across the Capital Region.”

Hochanadel was presented with a number of proclamations and commendations from local civic leaders and a stitched Music Haven baseball cap — the only one in existence, according to Golub.

Golub said one of the new stadium-quality seats will be dedicated in his honor.